American Gypsum 1/4-in x 4-ft x 8-ft Regular Drywall Panel

Charlotte Wood Middle School, Danville, California

It was 1991, and our company was framing the entire middle school. The Charlotte Wood Middle School was built out of Douglas Fir Lumber, Pressure Treated Plates, and different kinds of Plywood. I negotiated a contract with a lumber mill in Oregon to provide all the dimensional lumber for the project. I had lumber being delivered from their mill for months. GREAT PROJECT! Rick Aguilar - Cost Estimator

Overview

• What It Is

  • When it comes to building or remodeling, drywall is one of those unsung heroes that makes a space feel finished. Among the many options on the market, the American Gypsum 1/4-inch Regular Drywall Panel is a go-to choice for specific situations. Thin, lightweight, and versatile, it’s not designed for every job, but when used correctly, it can make your project a whole lot easier.

  • Product Overview

    The American Gypsum Regular Drywall Panel measures 4 feet wide by 8 feet long with a 1/4-inch thickness. Weighing in at around 33 pounds per sheet, it’s relatively easy to carry and maneuver compared to thicker panels.

    The panel is built with a regular gypsum core and features 100% recycled paper on the face and back. Long edges are tapered to help hide joints after taping and mudding, while the ends are square-cut for a clean fit. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty and contains no asbestos or harmful materials.

  Key Features & Specs

  • ClassicRoc® Gypsum Wallboard — built by American Gypsum to consistent industry quality standards.

  • Gypsum Core — regular, non-fire-rated core (not specifically Type X or moisture/mold treated)

  • Recycled Paper Facing — face paper is 100% recycled natural-finish; back side uses sturdy liner paper.

  • Folded Face Paper Edges — the face paper is folded around the long edges to reinforce and protect the gypsum core.

  • Long Edges Tapered — designed so joints can be reinforced & concealed with joint compound more easily.

  • Square, Smooth-Finished Ends — the ends are cut square and finished smooth for better alignment and cleaner finish

  Best Uses:

  • The 1/4-inch drywall panel isn’t designed to replace standard wallboard, but it does excel in certain situations where a thinner, more flexible sheet is the right tool for the job. Here are some of the best applications:

    1. Overlaying Existing Walls and Ceilings

    If you’re dealing with old textured walls, dated wood paneling, or uneven surfaces, this panel is a great solution. Its thin profile allows you to “skin” over existing finishes without dramatically increasing wall thickness or creating awkward transitions around trim and doors.

    2. Curved Surfaces

    At only a quarter inch thick, these panels can bend and flex much more easily than 1/2-inch drywall. That makes them ideal for arches, columns, curved walls, or barrel-style ceilings.

    3. Tight Spaces

    In areas like closets, utility rooms, or spaces with minimal depth, 1/4-inch drywall provides a finished look without taking up precious inches.

    4. Repairs and Renovations

    When patching or resurfacing old walls, this panel lets you refresh the surface without a full demo. It’s also light enough to handle for quick repair projects.

    5. Lightweight Applications

    Because it weighs less than thicker drywall, it’s easier to transport and install — especially useful in small projects, or when one person is handling the material.

  Practical Project Ideas for Homeowners:

  • The American Gypsum 1/4-inch drywall panel isn’t just for contractors — it’s a versatile material that homeowners can use to tackle a variety of improvement projects. Whether you’re updating, repairing, or getting creative, here are some ideas to put this lightweight board to work:

    1. Covering Outdated Paneling

    Tired of staring at dark, grooved wood paneling from decades past? Instead of tearing it down, you can overlay with 1/4-inch drywall. It instantly modernizes the look of a room without a full remodel.

    2. Smoothing Textured Ceilings

    Popcorn ceilings are a headache to scrape — messy, dusty, and sometimes unsafe if asbestos is present. A smarter solution is to install thin drywall right over the texture, giving you a smooth, modern ceiling with far less hassle.

    3. Adding Curves to a Room

    Want to create a stylish arched doorway, rounded wall, or barrel ceiling? Standard drywall is too rigid, but 1/4-inch panels bend to match curves with ease. It’s a great way to add architectural interest without custom millwork.

    4. Quick Wall Repairs

    For damaged areas — whether from water stains (once the source is fixed), dents, or cracks — thin drywall works well as a patching material. It blends seamlessly without adding thickness that might throw off the wall surface.

    5. Updating Closets and Small Spaces

    Closets often have uneven walls, old paint, or damaged finishes. Using this thin panel lets you refresh the space quickly while keeping shelves and rods in place without major rework.

    6. DIY Accent Walls

    Looking for a budget-friendly weekend project? Install 1/4-inch drywall over an accent wall, then finish with paint, wallpaper, or faux textures. The lightweight panel is easy to handle for DIYers.

    7. Basement or Attic Finishing (with conditions)

    If the space is dry and not exposed to moisture, this drywall can be used as a cost-effective wall covering. Just make sure you’re not relying on it for fire or sound control.

• Why Choose Gypsum Regular Drywall Panel?

  • When browsing the aisles of a home improvement store, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the many drywall choices: fire-rated, moisture-resistant, mold-resistant, soundproof, lightweight, and more. So why would you choose a regular gypsum panel like the American Gypsum 1/4-inch?

    1. Affordability

    Regular gypsum drywall is one of the most budget-friendly wall and ceiling materials available. For projects where specialized resistance isn’t required, you can save money without sacrificing a clean, finished look.

    2. Simplicity

    Because it’s a standard board, it’s straightforward to cut, install, and finish. That makes it a solid choice for homeowners and DIYers who want to avoid extra complexity.

    3. Versatility in Application

    From overlaying existing surfaces to creating curves or patching repairs, regular gypsum drywall can be adapted to many situations. It’s especially useful for quick updates and renovations where speed and flexibility matter.

    4. Lightweight & Easy to Handle

    At 1/4-inch thickness, this drywall is lighter than its 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch cousins. That makes it easier to transport, lift, and install — even if you’re working solo or in tight spaces.

    5. Environmentally Friendly

    With 100% recycled paper facing and no asbestos content, it’s a health-conscious and eco-friendly choice. You get peace of mind knowing your home materials are safe and sustainable.

  When This Board Really Shines

  • Because it’s so thin, this panel is perfect for:

    • Overlay projects – Think of it as a “skin” layer to smooth out uneven walls or ceilings without tearing down what’s already there.

    • Curved surfaces – At only 1/4-inch, it can bend gently to follow rounded wall or ceiling designs.

    • Tight spaces – Ideal in closets or anywhere you don’t want to lose precious inches.

    • Repairs and renovations – Great for covering dated wood paneling, textured walls, or damaged surfaces.

Ask Rick, example:“What’s the best Gypsum Board for this application? or “ When should I use fire-rated (Type X) drywall?”

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